MEDIA Format
GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) is a bitmap image format that supports animation and limited colour (up to 256 colours per frame). It is the only natively supported animated image format in WordPress. GIF files are typically larger than modern equivalents for the same visual quality.
GIF in WordPress
WordPress supports GIF uploads natively (image/gif MIME type). Static GIFs are compressed and scored by Mediapapa. Animated GIFs are not currently compressed by Mediapapa — the format requires frame-by-frame processing that is outside the current compression scope.
Static GIF files are generally best replaced with PNG (for flat-colour graphics) or WebP. Animated GIFs are best replaced with WebP animation or HTML5 video, both of which achieve far smaller file sizes for the same animation.
GIF vs WebP for animation
An animated GIF of a short screen recording might be 5 MB. The same content as WebP animation is typically 60–80% smaller. As WebP animation browser support is now comprehensive, migrating animated GIFs to WebP is a worthwhile optimisation for any site with animated content.
Frequently asked questions
Does Mediapapa compress animated GIFs?
Not currently. Mediapapa compresses static GIF files. Animated GIF compression requires frame-by-frame processing. The format support page on the help centre documents what is currently supported.
Related terms: WebP · PNG · Image Optimisation
Curious what is hiding in your library?
Scan it for free. No account needed.